Exodus 27:7 – “The poles are to be inserted into the rings so they will be on two sides of the altar when it is carried.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 27:7 provides specific instructions regarding how the altar, a central piece of the Tabernacle, was to be transported. The verse describes how poles were to be inserted into rings attached to the altar, allowing it to be carried easily by the Israelites as they moved from place to place. The poles, made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze (as detailed in previous verses), were designed to fit through rings attached to the altar. This design ensured that the altar could be lifted and carried without being directly touched, maintaining its sanctity and allowing it to be moved securely.
This verse emphasizes the importance of following God’s instructions precisely, especially concerning sacred objects used in worship. The portability of the altar was crucial for the Israelites, who were a nomadic people at the time, journeying through the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land.
Historical Context
The instructions in Exodus 27:7 were given during the period when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle, which included the altar, was a portable sanctuary that allowed the Israelites to worship God wherever they were. The altar was central to their sacrificial system, which was the means by which they atoned for their sins and maintained their covenant relationship with God.
Given the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites at that time, the ability to transport the Tabernacle and its furnishings was essential. The poles and rings allowed the altar to be carried without being defiled by direct human contact, preserving its holiness. This practice was not only practical but also deeply symbolic, reflecting the reverence with which the Israelites were to approach God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of holiness and reverence in worship. The altar, as a place where sacrifices were offered to God, was a holy object that could not be handled casually. The use of poles to carry the altar emphasizes the idea that sacred things must be treated with respect and that there is a proper way to approach God.
This verse also reflects the concept of God’s presence being with His people wherever they go. The portability of the altar ensured that the Israelites could maintain their worship practices no matter where they were, symbolizing God’s constant presence and guidance in their journey. It underscores the idea that worship is not confined to a single location but is something that can and should be part of the believer’s life at all times.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 27:7 is part of the detailed instructions God gave to Moses for the construction and use of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The verse is practical in nature, describing the logistics of how the altar was to be transported. The specificity of the instructions reflects the careful planning and order that characterized the Israelites’ worship practices.
The mention of the poles being inserted into rings on “two sides of the altar” ensures stability and balance when the altar was carried. This detail reinforces the broader biblical theme of order and reverence in approaching God. The repetition of specific instructions throughout this section of Exodus emphasizes the importance of following God’s commands exactly as given.
Biblical Cross-References
- Numbers 4:13-14 – Describes the covering of the altar and the insertion of the poles when preparing the Tabernacle for transport, further emphasizing the importance of the altar’s portability and sanctity.
- 1 Chronicles 13:9-10 – Tells the story of Uzzah, who touched the Ark of the Covenant and was struck down, highlighting the seriousness of handling sacred objects properly.
- Hebrews 9:4 – Refers to the Ark of the Covenant, which was also transported using poles, drawing a parallel between the holy objects of the Tabernacle and the reverence required in their handling.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 27:7 serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect. Just as the Israelites were instructed to carry the altar in a specific way to maintain its holiness, we are called to approach our relationship with God with a similar sense of reverence. This might involve setting aside specific times and places for worship or being mindful of how we handle the things of God in our lives, such as our Bibles, our prayers, and our interactions with others.
This verse also encourages us to remember that our worship and relationship with God should be portable—it should go with us wherever we go. Just as the altar was carried by the Israelites on their journey, our faith should be something that we carry with us in every aspect of our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 27:7 reflects God’s love in His desire to be with His people wherever they go. The instructions for carrying the altar show that God made provision for His people to continue their worship and maintain their relationship with Him, even as they journeyed through the wilderness. God’s care in providing these instructions demonstrates His ongoing presence and guidance in the lives of His people, ensuring that they could worship Him in a way that was both practical and reverent.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The portability of the altar, as described in Exodus 27:7, can be seen as a foreshadowing of the accessibility of God’s presence through Jesus Christ. Just as the altar could be carried wherever the Israelites went, Jesus made it possible for us to have access to God wherever we are. Hebrews 10:19-20 speaks of the new and living way that Christ has opened for us to enter God’s presence, making worship and communion with God available to all believers, regardless of location.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the instruction to carry the altar with poles challenge your understanding of reverence and respect in worship?
- In what ways can you ensure that your faith is something you carry with you in all areas of your life?
- How does understanding the portability of the altar deepen your appreciation for the accessibility of God’s presence through Jesus?
- What practical steps can you take to approach God with the same care and reverence that the Israelites were instructed to show in handling the altar?